NUJ condemns rising political violence before Osun governorship election campaigns

The Osun State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has condemned the escalating political violence that is unfolding ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election.

The union also warned that this trend threatens peace, public safety and the integrity of the democratic process.

The Council expressed alarm at growing reports of killings, intimidation and property damage tied to political activities, noting that the situation could erode the election’s credibility if urgent action is not taken to curb the violence.

In a joint statement signed by Osun NUJ Chairman Adeyemi Aboderin and Secretary Olalekan Akindoju, the union cited a report from the Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI) that documented 44 election‑related violent incidents across the state between October 2025 and June 2026.

According to the statement, these incidents resulted in the deaths of 13 people, a development the Council described as alarming and demanding immediate intervention from all stakeholders.

“The figures should serve as a wake‑up call to all stakeholders. No political ambition is worth the loss of human lives,” the statement said.

The Council urged security agencies to intensify efforts to prevent further violence by safeguarding lives and property, upholding professionalism and impartiality, and ensuring that those responsible for violent acts are brought to justice regardless of their political affiliations.

It also called on political parties, governorship candidates and their supporters to conduct peaceful campaigns focused on issues that matter to the people, rather than engaging in actions that could fuel unrest.

“The NUJ cautions political leaders against making inflammatory statements that could incite violence. They have a responsibility to restrain their supporters and place the interests of Osun State above partisan considerations.”

“The Council appeals to residents, particularly young people, not to allow themselves to be used as agents of political violence or intimidation during the electioneering period,” the statement added.

It emphasised that the lives and futures of the state’s youth should not be sacrificed for political interests, urging them to reject any attempt to lure them into unlawful activities.

The NUJ reaffirmed the commitment of journalists in Osun State to promote responsible journalism, factual reporting and public enlightenment throughout the governorship election campaign.

It also called on media practitioners to uphold the ethics of the profession by avoiding sensational reports that could heighten political tension, while encouraging balanced and accurate coverage of political activities across the state.